Lagenidium sp. (Fungus Disease) of Lobsters
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Category
Category 4 (Negligible Regulatory Significance in Canada)
Common, generally accepted names of the organism or disease agent
Lagenidium disease, Fungus disease.
Scientific name or taxonomic affiliation
Phycomycetous fungus, similar to Lagenidium callinectes of crabs and shrimp.
Geographic distribution
California (cultured larval lobsters). Not yet observed on the east coast of Canada but is probably present.
Host species
Homarus americanus and Homarus gammarus (=vulgaris); there are widespread reports that this fungus affects other crustaceans including shrimp, prawns and crabs.
Impact on the host
Penetrates and fills larvae with mycelia giving a white, opaque appearance. Lethal.
Diagnostic techniques
Gross Observations
Appendages or body filled with white mycelia, vegetative fruiting structures visible under dissecting microscope.
Culture
On saline mycological media. Microscopy may be necessary for specific indentification.
Methods of control
Disease probably related to poor husbandry and can be prevented by enhanced cleanliness.
References
Brock, J.A. and D.V. Lightner. 1990. Diseases of Crustacea. Diseases caused by microorganisms. In: O. Kinne (ed.). Diseases of Marine Animals. Volume III: Introduction, Cephalopoda, Annelida, Crustacea, Chaetognatha, Echinodermata, Urochordata. Biologische Anstalt Helgoland, Hamburg, p. 328-334.
Fisher, W.S. 1988. Fungus (Lagenidium) disease of lobsters. In: C.J. Sindermann and D.V. Lightner (eds.). Disease Diagnosis and Control in North American Aquaculture. Developments in Aquaculture and Fisheries Science 17. Elsevier, Amsterdam, p. 247-250.
Citation Information
Bower, S.M., McGladdery, S.E., Price, I.M. (1994): Synopsis of Infectious Diseases and Parasites of Commercially Exploited Shellfish: Lagenidium sp. (Fungus Disease) of Lobsters.
Date last revised: Fall 1994
Comments to Susan Bower
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